Explore the history of Brownsea Island. From a defence to a sanctuary, it has seen the rise and fall of both settlement and industry. Managed by landowners who ranged from mad to depressed as well as hosting lavish parties for European royalty to hiding from the world, it has risen from the ashes twice and … Continue reading Brownsea Island
Hengistbury Head, once a bustling settlement during the Stone Age, Iron Age and Roman period and now a peaceful nature reserve. Stroll along the beach with views across the sea to the Isle of Wight and round to Christchurch Harbour. Return via Warren Hill and through the ancient landscape looking over to the Purbecks, deeper … Continue reading Hengistbury Head
From the Mason's pub of the Square and Compass, in the limestone village of Worth Matravers, visit Winspit Caves. Looking out out sea, the ghost like movie set was once a bustle of activity providing stone for the most prestigious of buildings, all over the world. Follow the paths of smugglers and pirates to Dancing … Continue reading Worth Matravers and Dancing Ledge
From the small coastal village of Studland make your way along the cliffs to Old Harry’s Rocks. Now a stump, a stack and a bit of no man’s land, it once housed a castle. Both the caves below and the name linked to a famous local pirate. Continue along the cliff top past the Pinnacles … Continue reading Old Harry’s Rocks
Start in the small village of Furzebrook which was once the epicentre of the clay industry, the area producing the raw materials required for the famous Wedgewood brand amongst others. Pass the village’s manor, so thoroughly used and abused during the Second World War, that the family didn’t want it back. Make your way past … Continue reading Furzebrook and the Blue Pool
Beginning at a stunning view point looking across the heathland and the harbour to the small port of Poole, wander through the woodland and farmsteads to reach an ancient stone circle. Pass Rempstone estate that played a large part in WWII, utilised by both Montgomery and Churchill. Climb Nine Barrow Down, through tunnels of trees, … Continue reading Rempstone Stone Circle
Discover the sandy peninsula of Arne. Reaching out into Poole Harbour, this stretch of land is managed by the RSPB and home to all six British reptiles. Wander through the ancient woodland, minding out for the odd WW2 bomb crater, to reach the white shell beach of Shipstal, it’s bordering trees clinging to life by … Continue reading Arne
From the Saxon town of Wareham, follow the River Frome to Poole Harbour, tracing the reverse route of invading Danes. Curve around Swineham Point with views stretching from Arne peninsula, to Brownsea Island and to the shimmering conurbation of Poole. Meet the River Piddle entering Wareham via the ancient town walls. Pass a stunning example … Continue reading Wareham and Poole Harbour
